The County Wide Digital Inclusion Project “Staying Connected” Receives National Lottery Community Fund Grant

We are pleased to announce, Community Action Dacorum has secured a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund to support our Hertfordshir-wide digital inclusion project, “Staying Connected,” for the next three years.

This vital project, began in 2020 and is dedicated to supporting the 10% of people in Hertfordshire who are unable to access the digital world.

Staying Connected is a partnership project with Welwyn and Hatfield CVS, Communities 1st, Community Alliance Broxbourne and East Herts, Watford & Three Rivers Trust and North Herts and Stevenage CVS. Each organisation will continue to use their strengths, local knowledge and networks to find and support those who are digitally isolated.

Digital isolation often leads to social isolation, and with the growing intersection of digital poverty and financial poverty, “Staying Connected” addresses these critical issues by focusing on areas of poverty and skills gaps.

The project operates through a comprehensive four-step approach:

  1. Access to equipment – Providing essential hardware to those in need.
  2. Access to connectivity – Ensuring internet connectivity for participants.
  3. Offering hands-on assistance and support with our dedicated team of Digital Champions
  4. Facilitating skill development and community building through targeted training sessions.

“Staying Connected” is a lifeline for many who find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide. By empowering individuals with the tools and skills they need to navigate the digital world, we are opening up new opportunities for personal and/or professional growth, bridging the gap and providing greater social inclusion.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this grant from The National Lottery Community Fund. This funding will enable us to continue our mission of bridging the digital divide in Hertfordshire, helping more people to stay connected and engaged with their communities.”

Dr Simon Aulton, CEO of Community Action Dacorum

“I am very pleased to hear that the Staying Connected project has been funded by The National Lottery Community Fund. The work done to support the 10% of Hertfordshire residents who are not able to get online is brilliant and I am very proud of the difference it is making across out county.”

Terry Douris – Chairman, Hertfordshire County Council

Visit Staying Connected to get involved as a Digital Champion or for information on how to access the service.

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